Original tradition of the Tuxtlas and Cuenca del Papaloapan, extended to other states such as Oaxaca, Chiapas, Yucatán and Tabasco.
The “burning of the old man” is a tradition that is celebrated in various regions of southern Mexico, where some variants have been acquired. In some places, there are theatrical performances and even dances.
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Tradition in Veracruz
At the end of December, one or several dolls are made simulating ‘old’ men with white hair and beards, and dressed in the attire that is regularly worn in the region (such as bandanas, blanket suits, hats, and even cigarettes or cigars). ).
These rag characters are stuffed with used fabrics and newspapers. They are seated in a chair with a sign on their chest that says: “a little alms for this poor old man, who has left children for the new year.” This action is to collect in a boat or can, the money to buy sweets for the children and fireworks for the day of the burning, which takes place on the night of December 31.
The ‘burning of the old man’: a joyous farewell
On the day of the burning, the old man is charged walking through the streets, accompanied by his comparsas: dancers, revelers, musicians, and an entourage with a pregnant widow, who is the mother of the new year.
Songs that are usually sung:
A handout for this poor old man
who has left children
for the new Year.
To Don Ferruco
We are going to burn it
because the villistas
they want to kill him.
the old man is leaving
dying of laughter
because tonight
they turn it to ash.
At the time of the burning, the firecrackers and dry banana peels are inserted into the “old man’s” clothing so that, as the fireworks burn, they “thunder” and with it, all the evils go away. and a new renewed cycle is received.
Did you know…
This tradition of burning the old man, in addition to Mexico, is also carried out in Latin American countries such as Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Argentina and Chile.
In Xalapa, the old man is represented by a person disguised as an old man with rags and a mask or white beard, dancing son jarocho and singing the songs with the people who accompany him.
To the south of Veracruz, in Oluta, to say goodbye to the year, the Chenu dancean ancestral dance that dates back to the time of the conquest, which represents the winter solstice and Christmas, and theatrical performances are made with the battle of good against evil.
What is your ritual for New Years?
Do you want to escape to Veracruz? discover and plan here an unforgettable experience
Dahida Gutierrez Communicologist; admirer of the colorful and talkative Mexico that exalts itself with traditions and its people.